Rockstar reassures fans over Red Dead Redemption 2's exclusive special edition story missions

Rockstar Games: "The Bank Robbery and Gang Hideout included in the RDR2 Special Edition are side activities created specifically for that edition and are not part of the main story."

[lociefer]

Why do it in the first place , either be scammy with you shark cards and online monitization crap, or cut pieces of single player, but dont do both

[CaptainObvious878]

If we get a vote, I say don't do either.

[abstractel]

So what, now we are given two SKUs of the game with one having gameplay that is exclusive for the higher priced SKU? This isn't cosmetic or a couple of vehicles -- these are full blown side stories. The game is going to be huge, even the normal edition, but despite that this isn't a cool move on Rockstar's behalf. Imagine if Sony Santa Monica had pulled this stunt with God of War.

Profit isn't going to be an issue with this game. They're being overly greedy. Games should make money of course, it's good for the industry and gamers, but this is crossing a line to me. The people who will miss out are kids and other groups with limited income (and we know most gamers over 14 are going to purchase this game no matter what the rating). If this came out when I was a teenager I'd be extra pissed off.

Can only hope they'll release it as DLC after a few months. Even though I can afford to get the special edition, I'm torn whether or not I want to support this practice.

[SheenuTheLegend]

its amazing that developers are able to ruin gaming at this level.

[bluefox755]

It's just like cutting content out of the game and selling it as DLC. In fact, it's worse. At least with selling it as DLC, you can get the content later if you want without rebuying the entire game.

[ArchangelMike]

I'm actually quite divided on this one.

On the one hand, as the game devs and content creators, they have the right to sell whatever content they want at whatever price they want. It's the beauty - or should I say ugly truth of the capitalist market.

On the other hand it is a blatant and underhanded move to further parcel out on-disc game content and sell it piece-meal, at the expense of the average gamer. No longer can the gamer simply purchase the full game experience for a set price, they are forced to pay a premium on top of the standard price.

Then you have the £89.99 "Collectors box" which doesn't even come with a copy of the game, which means you have to also pay the £54.99 for the standard edition, or if you want the 'complete game' - you'll have to pay either £74.99 or £89.99 for the "ultimate Edition".

It is a clear indication that Take Two know that the Red Dead franchise has such a draw among gamers, that it can blatantly and overtly price gouge the consumer.

It's so unfair because we're all still going to bend over and buy Red Dead 2.

[The_Jackel]

im not devided, all editions should have all the same story content from the get go. only thing to be pre order bonuses or in other editions is say stuff for online or cosmetic (outfits boots hat, even an outfit for the horse, guns ect) not story mode stuff. fair enough dlc down the track isnt included but as for the base game to have sp content taken away and you need to buy a special/ultimate edition is pathetic.
and on top of that the collectors edition not to have the game is also stupid not even a dlc code for it cheaper yes due to no game but isnt why most gamers buy a collectors edition.

[lociefer]

I'm with you on this one, if there's a single player portion that it HAS to be complete for everyone , the multiplayer is not for everyone, and they'r making millions out of it ( look at GTA), so why cut a portion of single player just for that extra nickel and dime while multiplayer already makes millions

[The_Jackel]

id be more happy if it was standard just the game ,special edition with a remaster of red dead redemption for ps4 and xbox that is also included in the ultimate edition but ultimate you get that map and some other things that are cosmetic in the game, and with collectors you get everything thats in it shown plus the rdr2 game and red dead redemption as well plus the cosmetics from the ultimate edition. thats how i would have done it if i was R*

so each version just adds on that little extra for the extra cash while making the game itself exactly the same from standard to collectors.

[CyberSentinel]

@lociefer

The single player dlc day one content is for the single player used game buyer.
R* is trying to getting a piece of those sales/players.

[InactiveUser]

Cyber, I don't see how Used game buyers, who don't want to or can't pay $60 for a game are going to spend $80/$90 or whatever the Ultimate Edition costs. That logic doesn't follow at all. I'm fine with stuff like the leveling up boost to 25 and cheaper/free low tier guns or starter horse... That's just people spending money to save some time. That's their 'time is money' decision, and they could easily be caught up to, assuming the horse etc are just starter/relatively low/mid tier assests. I don't like and and don't plan on supporting missions cut from the game that aren't able to be unlocked through normal play.

I'll likely wait until the complete game is under $30 with this breakup of content, lower if the mission etc aren't on disc. If I have to wait 3yrs+ and play it on ps5, so be it.

[CorndogBurglar]

Its total BS. If this were EA or Activision then people would be having their heads right now.

But because its Rockstar people seem to be somewhat okay with it and still willing to buy the game.

[D3athc3ll]

I hear you and I agree to some extend. Thing is, I'm going to buy the standard edition and enjoy the hell out of this game. It's gona be good we all know that. Dick move from Rockstar, but how can someone not buy this game if they own a ps4 or xbox one?

Lets hope they hear ppl complain this time and does not do same with next GTA.

[ArchangelMike]

The difference here is that we know that Rockstar have such a high quality when it come to their open world games, that it's guaranteed that Red Dead 2 will be a smash hit. But that's what makes it even more gutting that Take Two are exploiting that fact.

EA and Activision don't make high quality games of the same calibre of Rockstar. Not even close. But yeah, even still I agree that Take Two shouldn't get a free pas for price gouging.

[lociefer]

You are totally right and i agree, only difference though between ea and them is that rockstar puts extra effort into their games BUT with that said, a scummy practice is scummy and they should be called out on it, heck i'd even do it if sony does such a thing

[Gh05t]

People are weak and contradict themselves based on what they want not on their actual principles.

Welcome to the world as of 2018, everything that I hate is forgiven as long as the person doing it is on my side or I like them.

[RosweeSon]

Yeah because the quality of anything rockstar has ever made even table tennis far surpasses anything EA or activision have done.

[CorndogBurglar]

@ RosweeSon

Really? So because their game is good, that means they can try to screw us with content that is locked behind paywalls?

It means it's okay for them to release multiple editions with extra clothes and horses?

It means they can sell an ultimate edition that doesn't even come with a copy of the game itself?

Wake up man.

[bigmalky]

I won't. Why do people have to bend over?

Just don't and they'll soon stop. Buy 2nd hand.

[Omnisonne]

A healthy reminder that no developer should be exempt from their fansbase's scrutiny, even devs with a great track record. I'm excited for the game sure, but stuff like this makes me back off abit, raising a few questions. Im personally going to wait in what state the game releases before the purchase, no doubt it'll be great, but better safe than sorry.

[SarcasticDuck]

what do you mean they are releasing a bundle that comes without the game? WHAT THE ACTUAL F*CK???

[nucky64]

you can just buy the standard copy for the normal price. it's not like people don't have that option.

[thisismyaccount]

But what they don't know, we the consumer decide if the product is any good or worth paying for.

Will way for the gote version next year, with every dlc released ...

[ClanPsi1]

I'm not going to buy RD2. At least not until they release RD1 on PC so I can play it first, and then release RD2 on PC. Until they do that they can get f*cked.

[victorMaje]

So, content that will be available at launch, without extra work is being cut from the base game & put behind a paywall for special & ultimate editions. Not cosmetic items, but actual single player story missions?

For a game like RDR2, this here is the true challenge. Do we give in or do we hold off & vote with our wallets? Because I've seen us do it & I've seen us succeed :)

[-Foxtrot]

What about the collectors edition with no game or steelbook...

[The_Jackel]

that is the most stupidest thing i have ever seen. its like halo 5 i think gave you a steelbook that holds a disc but a dlc code to download the game :/ whats the point in the steelbook if you dont have a disc.

[xPhearR3dx]

What about it? What if someone isn't interesting in all the little extras and just wants the base game, but also wants the physical collectors items. They would be forced to pay for content they don't want. Also, what about people who like to go all digital but also want collectors items? This is good way for digital players who also want those items without being forced to pay for another copy of the game.

[-Foxtrot]

Oh great you've bought into their "good way" of doing it when really it's a bullshit excuse they can cover their ass with when really they are charging people extra

If you want the game and the steelbook you need to pay an extra £89.99, which is almost £200 for everything...that's not right man. The game and steelbook could have been added to that edition for £120-140 at the most.

[xPhearR3dx]

I haven't bought into anything. I don't buy much physical copies anymore due to changes in my life. I even have a traveling case for my PS4 as it comes with me often. So for ME, digital is the best option. However, one of the cons with digital is missing out on collectors edition goodies unless I buy "X Edition" that also includes a copy of the game. So this saves ME money as I don't have to purchase a 2nd copy. Obviously I'm not the majority, but just because it doesn't fall in line with your lifestyle and benefit you specifically, doesn't mean it's bullshit.

[CorndogBurglar]

I get that you travel and buy digital. But if you REALLY wanted to get all those extra goodies, why on earth would you need to buy two copies of the game?

You could always just buy it physical. I'm sure where ever you are traveling you have enough room to bring the physical game too. Why would you buy it digitally also for the very few ultimate editions of games I'm sure you buy.

[warriorcase]

To be fair they do call it the collectors box and not collectors edition but it still is ultimately misleading. I don't see the logic behind releasing a Collectors box for a game at release time with no game.

[sagapo]

Having double feelings about this...

[fiveby9]

No way I will pay extra money for a cpl missions or in-game items. For me it'll be base game purchased from Best Buy with Gamer's Club so only $48 for me after the discount. I expected not quite such a transparent cash grab from R*. It'll probably be a great game but if it's unacceptable for the likes of Ubi, EA, etc to do this then it's also unacceptable to me from Take Two & R*. Locking SP missions behind a paywall. For shame.

[ClanPsi1]

Why not wait a few weeks and buy it used. Then Take Two won't get a dime from you.

[Si3g]

Bad move Rockstar.

[UCForce]

This is just bad move, Rockstar.

[GrimDragon]

Disappointed but not surprised to see rockstar take such a monetization and capitalist approach to their game. They see a large fan base and think how can I max profits on this game. It's a very anti gamer business approach when all you care about is the revenue you can get by taking advantage of peoples love for your game.

[Rachel_Alucard]

Take 2 is the one pulling the strings. They are the reason no single player was ever green-lit for GTAV, because monetization sales were so good they saw no need to make any.

[zielocz3k]

thats why i love The Witcher /CD PROJEKT RED even more. Cosmetics and extra side quests were free. imo ROCKSTAR is getting very greedy lately, collectors edition without actual game? lol. EA 2.0

[RosweeSon]

You can blame assassins creeds with its 4/5 editions per year each with its own missions for setting the precedent here

[Gh05t]

Or blame R* and TT for being its own company able to make its own decisions.

[RosweeSon]

Which they did and haven’t cut anything out from the main game or story.

[Gh05t]

Haven't cut anything from the game??? Where did this content come from? If the game isn't released you can't have extra content. Everything made is a part of the game... This is cut out unless you pay more. Call it what it is.

[stefd75]

The jump in price is alot to £50 for standard edition or £75 for Special Edition with some extra bits and a map, I will just get the normal standard one, Im sure you can get most of the other stuff anyway apart from the Special Edition only side activities, which i bet is just like something else in the game.

[xenz]

Shit like this makes me mad. Guess I’ll have to rent it or buy it on sale if they don’t change this.

When you pay 60$ you’d expect to get the full experience. What they’ve done here is to cut out a few missions and charge 80$ if you want the full package.

[Profchaos]

I'm happy to pay for extra missions if they are quality however there has been to many games in the past that try this and the additional missions are garbage.

Gta v even had special stunt plane missions that just didn't matter.

Id like to buy these missions for $5 or somthing instead.I am not interested in all the other content in the special edition I don't want guns and money early if rather play the game for that

[Gh05t]

I dont like paying more for content already developed before the game even ships. To me that makes it part of the game. I dont want a game where I buy every mission at $1 a piece.

[RosweeSon]

And your not.

[DontShoot-Me-Bro]

This is a day one..........rental for me.

i'll play your game but you ain't seeing any of my money

[Chaosdreams]

I'll either get this on sale or when a complete version releases.

Too many games to play, and I leave those with greedy practices at the bottom of my list, if they don't get kicked off.

[--bienio--]

PC version?!?!

[HighlyDoubtful]

Scummy but I'll definitely be paying extra.

[Yi-Long]

When I buy a game, I expect to buy the complete experience. Weird, I know...(!)

Some developers understand that and won't screw you over. And some developers think differently and will try to nickel & dime you for everything they can.

Sad to see Rockstar joining the dark side. Their SP games were always the complete deal. Not anymore, I guess. Very disappointing.

[monkey602]

That's disappointing to hear.

I'll probably end up getting Red Dead. I'm not massively hyped right now but that's just because I'm a bit more reserved these days. I'll get excited closer to launch.

As with all other games I buy though I'll just get the standard edition. Collectors editions are always a rip off

[MIDNIITE_Z3RO]

Welp, think I'll pass. I'm sure R* won't miss my money tho. Companies are getting greedy and pulling weird tactics man. Just sell the game. I miss the old days.

[Lighter9]

I think you're really just paying to get to play it first, and after a year or so, you'll be able to play it.

[BuildTheWall]

You can take your Collector's Boxes & shove them up your ass!!!

[FernDiggidy]

Will wait for a deep sale. Thanks, rockstar :)

[raWfodog]

Oh damn, well that sucks. Guess I'll be missing out on day one then. I won't pick this game up until a complete (GOTY) version is available or the price comes down dramatically. I cannot fully support this tactic of theirs.

[Hardiman]

This is bullshit and while I loved the first one I'm old enough I can live without buying this new. Or wIting a year and with Spider-Man and other 3rd party titles coming combined with my backlog it's not hard!

[maybelovehate]

I am fine with it. Rockstar games are so huge, it always felt wrong that we pay the same for GTA or Red Dead as compared to God of War or other games that have much less content.

[MasterChief3624]

Oh, when I hear "reassures fans over exclusive missions to the special edition" I guess I expected them to say something about how they will be purchasable outside of the special edition. But nope.

[SixFragz]

So this is what Rockstar has come to... very well then.

Seems like the only savory developers and publishers out there now come from Sony first party.

Absolutely blasphemous, more companies falling to such despicable practices. Shame that such filth has to be attached to what will inevitably be a great game.

That being said, I'll buy the game used and/or at a price drop. These companies will not get a single penny from me.

[Realms]

WTF? Why are people so dumb and buy into this kind of marketing BS. The same thing with GTA5 online people are paying to create their own fun, it puzzles me that people dump time and money into these kinds of games. Meanwhile the developer does as little as possible and gets rewarded for it, didn't GTA5 garnered the most revenue of all games? It's like Rockstar is trying to piss people off. After playing God of War without any shenanigans it's kind of hard justifying developers that try to pull this kind of crap.

I expect more from Rockstar but I guess the truck loads of money they got from GTA5 wasn't enough.

[Prime157]

Still, it's not the full game. They're just flipping us upside down and shaking us for change.

[blacktiger]

OMG are you fucking kidding me! Fk your garbage. I ain't buying it. They are going to discriminate in future if they do this already before the game even comes out

[AussieButcher56]

Ridiculous move by Rockstar. They've made two versions of the actual game itself.

[RosweeSon]

I think your confused by Pokemon.

[mt]

I am starting to lose faith in Rockstar as one of the most elite developers out there.

[Saxism]

With how high the production quality is of Rockstar games, I would gladly pay up to twice as much as other games. You get the content equal to 3 AAA games in 1.

[Born2Game83]

All you can really do is vote with your money. Buy it if you don't care, don't if you do.

[Majin-vegeta]

Any great company lost to greed

[ClanPsi1]

I f*cking hate the word "exclusive."

[Codedan]

Imagine if MS just used their money and did this to all of the games they could, the narrative would change quite quickly.

[BioDead]

People should just stop pre-ordering video games altogether

[bluefox755]

This is literally taking content out of the game and selling it as DLC. This is a dirty practice and I'm seriously reconsidering my support for this game.

[BrianOBlivion]

That's not "reassuring".
It just makes me think "Fine, f*ck you too. PLENTY of other games to play. I can easily wait for yours to hit the bargain bin."

[BrianOBlivion]

ANY mission content IS part of the game. Especially at launch. To say otherwise is to LIE.

Rockstar execs are probably weighing the lost/delayed sales due to pissing off their own fans VS extra profits gained from people feeling forced into buying the more expensive version to get the full game.
Deciding how badly you can afford to f*ck over your own clients is not a business model -it's a greedy, idiotic cash grab.
That is a surprisingly short-sighted move from the usually savvy Rockstar because the REAL long term cost comes out of the damage to/loss of all the good will the company has built over the last couple of decades just to squeeze out a few extra bucks out of a single title.